Anyone But You finds humor in chaos but misses the heart
In Anyone But You, we follow Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell), two wildly different characters who concoct a fake relationship to fool those around them. It’s a classic setup in the rom-com genre—strangers pretending to be a couple only to end up questioning if there might be something real there. Will Gluck, the director, tries to give this familiar premise a fresh twist with witty banter, lively pacing, and plenty of gorgeous locations. The results, however, are a mixed bag. While the film hits a few amusing notes, it struggles to maintain the right blend of romance and comedy.
The chemistry between Sweeney and Powell provides some of the film’s more enjoyable moments. Their bickering and quick-witted exchanges inject the narrative with a chaotic energy that keeps the story moving. Sweeney’s knack for deadpan delivery pairs well with Powell’s overconfident charm, making their interactions at least entertaining on a surface level. Yet, beneath this dynamic, there is a glaring lack of emotional substance. The film rushes through pivotal scenes, leaving little room for the characters to genuinely connect or for the audience to care deeply about their supposed love story.
What Anyone But You does well is lean into the absurdity of its premise. There are scenes filled with over-the-top antics, dramatic misunderstandings, and laugh-out-loud moments that give the movie its playful tone. Gluck seems to enjoy putting the characters in hilariously awkward situations, letting the comedy arise naturally from their discomfort. However, the constant comedic pacing occasionally becomes overwhelming, leaving little breathing room for quieter, more heartfelt moments that could deepen the story.
Visually, the film takes full advantage of its picturesque setting. Sun-drenched beaches, vibrant party scenes, and stunning backdrops create an atmosphere that is undeniably fun and lighthearted. It’s clear that the movie isn’t trying to be profound; it just wants to take the audience on a breezy, entertaining ride. Unfortunately, while the setting provides a feast for the eyes, it can’t mask the shallow development of the romance at the film’s core.
In the end, Anyone But You plays out more like a string of comic skits than a fully realized love story. The premise had potential, and the leads show promise with their comedic chops, but the film’s frantic pacing and lack of emotional weight keep it from becoming memorable. It’s enjoyable in the moment, delivering a handful of laughs, but it leaves you wanting more from its central relationship.
